SPIA celebrates five 40 under 40 honorees

SPIA is proud to announce that five alumni will be recognized this fall as recipients of the UGA Alumni Association’s 40 under 40 award. This award, given annually, recognizes successful young alumni who have shown a commitment to the University and made a significant impact in business, leadership, community, artistic, research, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Little known fact: “I love to travel and experience new cultures. Last year, I traveled to Bali to serve for a week in an orphanage. I try to take a trip like this once a year.”

Amelia Dortch (ABJ ’06, MPA ’12)

City: Auburn, Alabama

Occupation: State Public Affairs Specialist |U.S. Department of Agriculture

UGA Legacy: “I want my UGA legacy to reflect my personal belief that no one’s journey has to end on the same path on which it began.”

James Gates (AB ’01, MPA ’04)

City: Atlanta, Georgia

Occupation: Partner | Bell Oaks Executive Search

Little known fact: “I’m quite good at impersonations. Once, I was called into the Headmaster’s office for impersonating a teacher. Upon arriving, the headmaster asked me to do the impersonation because he heard that it was hilarious.”

UGA Legacy: “The time and energy I invest in the university today is aimed at exposing students to experiential opportunities to enhance the value of their degree in a way that extends beyond the classroom. The legacy I want to leave is one that catalyzes UGA’s reputation as molding and educating more than just excellent students, but as an institution that harnesses the power and energy of the next generation of trailblazers.”